Luminos Evaluation

Investigators

Francis Mitrou, Vu Vuong, Mehardeep Kaur

Project description

The Luminos project is a Western Australian youth suicide prevention initiative delivered by Ruah Community Services in partnership with Samaritans WA and The Kids Research Institute Australia, with funding from the WA Mental Health Commission and Lotterywest. The program provides a short-term non-clinical residential sanctuary for young people aged 16-24 experiencing suicidal distress, offering a safe and supportive environment focused on emotional wellbeing, suicide intervention and skill development.

As part of the broader evaluation of Luminos, the Human Development and Community Wellbeing team at the Kids Research Institute Australia undertook the quantitative evaluation component, drawing on participant intake records and follow-up questionnaires. The analysis examines participants’ demographic and clinical characteristics, support needs and service experiences, alongside longitudinal changes in suicidal ideation, psychological distress and health-related quality of life. The findings aim to inform future service delivery and the development of community-based youth suicide prevention services.

Plain language summary

Luminos provides a safe, supportive and non-clinical environment for young people experiencing suicidal thoughts. The data collected at intake as well as follow up questionnaires from young people accessing Luminos is used to better understand who uses the service, their support needs and how their mental health and wellbeing change over time. This work forms the quantitative component of a broader evaluation and provides evidence to help improve support service for young people experiencing suicidal distress.

Funders

• Western Australian Mental Health Commission
• Lotterywest

External collaborators

• Ruah Community Services
• Samaritans WA